If you invest dramatically more in research and development of green energy technology, however, for every dollar you spend you can probably avoid about $11 of climate damage.

Many environmentalists oppose spending public money on the technology, saying it is untested and utilities already make massive profits while driving the planet towards irreversible climate damage.

The U.S. can, without major damage to the economy, help halt the worst effects of climate change and ensure the survival of its way of life for future generations.